Independent Living Communities in Arkansas

Arkansas’ independent living communities are a great place for those still able to carry out their normal routine with the added benefit of receiving care as needed. This care type capitalizes on allowing residents to lead the lives they desire, surrounded by a community of like-minded peers. Each location is going to be different, however, that just means there are more opportunities to find the right fit for you. With various types of living spaces like studio apartments, cottages, and townhouses, independent living is a preferable option for many seniors.

Cost Comparison of Arkansas Independent Living

Arkansas has 20 independent living communities with an average cost of $2,030 per month.

Comparing costs is a great place to start when looking for an independent senior living option. One of the key benefits to this care type is the range of amenities found in different communities. Arkansas independent living is includes housekeeping services, transportation, fitness centers, and meal plans with your monthly payments. More amenities depending on your unique community may come at an additional cost, but that can be a good thing depending on your lifestyle! Here are a few costs found throughout Arkansas.

Recreations & Attractions in Arkansas

Arkansas has many parks to be seen such as Hot Springs National Park and Mammoth Spring State Park. The Crater of Diamonds State Park offers the public the opportunity to hunt for real diamonds. Buffalo National River is a protected area for wildlife like bobcats, deer, and many other creatures. This 135-mile long river is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states, remaining a majestic natural wonder. For history buffs and aviation fans, The Arkansas Air Museum has various 1920’s and 1930’s racing planes, biplanes, and displays the history of flying for visitors young and old.

Arkansas Climate, Geography & Culture

Arkansas is also known as the Natural State. This is because of the 52 state parks, three national forests, five national parks, and their national river. The humid subtropical climate results in hot humid summers but inclined to drought by summer’s end. Arkansas has the average temperature of 63 degrees, a high temperature of 73 degrees, and a low temperature of 53 degrees. During the winter season, temperatures are usually in the 30-50s . Spring and fall temperatures generally range from the 60-80s, while summer temperatures vary within the 80-90s. Arkansas typically receives 49.57 inches of rainfall annually and average snowfall 10 inches annually.

People in Arkansas are characterized by their southern hospitality and a deep sense of Christian spirituality. Like many unique places in the world, you can't really discuss Arkansas' culture without mentioning their cuisine. Like most of the south, Arkansas is known for traditional country-fried cooking, mouth-watering barbecues, wild duck, okra, and you can't forget grits. This state is also very keen on all things football, particularly at the collegiate level.

Arkansas Independent Living Regulations and Laws

According to the Department of Human Services in Arkansas, all independent living communities are required to develop and maintain a quality assessment unit to submit annual reports. In order to ensure that health, safety, and medical standards are being upheld, these reports are a necessary part of regulating independent living facilities. Additionally, these reports will reveal and document how past violations have been fixed and how they were addressed.

Crime & Safety in Arkansas

Sperling’s Best Places ranked Arkansas 51 on a scale of 100 (1 being the lowest crime) for violent crime and 50 for property crime; the United States overall ranked 41 for violent crime and 44 for property crime compared to Arkansas’ ranking. Arkansas has a variety of local crime watch organizations who work together with local law enforcement to ensure that as many areas of the state remain lawful and safe.

Location

Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents

Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents

Greenbrier

0.00

1.57

Malvern

0.73

4.46

Bella Vista

0.94

4.82

Centerton

1.83

6.07

Payment Options for Arkansas Independent Living

Considering the fact that Medicare and Medicaid are unlikely to cover the costs of independent living, Seniors need to seek a different series of options in order to pay for their long-term plans and retirement needs.

First off, Veterans' benefits can be used by single seniors to provide around $1,644 a month, with couples eligible for upwards of $1,949. If a spouse survives their veteran partner, they may be entitled to approximately $1,056 a month. Many people end up paying with their pensions, savings, and by selling other assets.

If these options are unavailable to you, there is also the option for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). For people who are blind, have a disability, have children, and don't already make a sustainable amount of money to retire, then collecting SSI may be one of the last options left. Additionally, individuals must be over 65 years old and be a citizen of the U.S.

Finally, another option is to open a senior living line of credit. This allows up to $50,000 of unsecured credit to be used for care as is needed. Since the funds are sent directly to your independent living community, the terms are flexible yet efficient. With little to no collateral required, many are choosing this option as a means of paying for independent living.

Senior & Elderly Rights for Independent Living in Arkansas

Although you'll be in independent living, it's important to remain aware of your rights as a resident. Your privacy and personal discretion are very important to both your own health and the health of your community. If there's ever a point where you're treated unfairly or without the dignity you deserve, you reserve the right to air your grievances to the facility. Generally speaking, all residents of Arkansas independent living communities are afforded their constitutional rights, meaning you remain an autonomous decision maker regarding your care and finances. If ever you find that your rights have been violated, reach out to a lawyer versed in elder law as soon as you can.

For assistance in learning about and exercising your rights, you can review the Arkansas Ombudsman for more details.

AK Independent Living Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Following state and federal HIPAA laws, all residents of independent living communities in Arkansas are entitled to inspect his or her records, which are to be kept private otherwise. These records are to be properly filed and maintained on site, including another 5 years after a resident is discharged from the community. If any disclosures of this information are to be made, the resident will be notified to provide authorization.

Finding the perfect senior care community is only part of making your loved one’s senior living transition smooth. At SeniorCaring, we know that it is also equally important to be aware of what other community services and resources are available to your family’s senior. Choose your location and find local resources for your senior.